Highlights
- Private 2-day Biblical Ephesus flight package from Ankara Airport with an overnight base near Ephesus.
- Meet at Ankara Airport and continue through Izmir Airport to the Kusadasi or Selcuk area.
- Visit the House of Virgin Mary with private pacing on the main sightseeing day.
- Explore the Seven Sleepers tradition before walking through Ephesus Ancient City.
- Finish with lunch near Selcuk and St. John Basilica before the return airport connection.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- Private pacing gives the airport-based Ephesus package a calmer rhythm from arrival to return.
- The overnight format lets the local sightseeing day concentrate on the Biblical Ephesus route.
- You can follow a meaningful line from House of Virgin Mary to St. John Basilica with Ephesus Ancient City at its center.
- The program keeps the travel logic simple by starting and ending at Ankara Airport.
Overview
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Day 1
Flight to Izmir and Kusadasi / Selcuk Overnight
Travel from Ankara Airport to the Ephesus region.
The package starts directly at Ankara Airport, continues by flight to Izmir and includes overnight stay in the Kusadasi / Selcuk area.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: ShortAnkara Airport (ESB) Meeting PointMeet directly at Ankara Airport.
Meet your private guide at Ankara Esenboga Airport for the Izmir flight.
TicketsFlight ticket (Ankara Airport (ESB) to Izmir Airport (ADB)) ExcludedIzmir Airport ArrivalArrive at Izmir Airport.
Arrival at Izmir Airport and transfer to the overnight hotel area.
Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)Check in for the overnight stay.
Check in at the arranged hotel in the Kusadasi / Selcuk area before the guided route on the next day.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation ExcludedHotel dinner Excluded -
Day 2
House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus & St. John Route
Guided Biblical Ephesus route.
Different tour end?
The second day follows the Biblical Ephesus local route before the return flight to Ankara Airport.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Short
Fountains at the House of Virgin Mary 
Interior Chapel and Altar of the House of Virgin Mary 
Cave of the Seven Sleepers Stone Entrance 
Carved Details at the Library of Celsus 
Archaeology Detail at the Library of Celsus 
Library of Celsus Cultural Landmark Scene 
Grand Theatre View Across Stone Tiers 
Nike Stone Relief Close View 
Temple of Hadrian Street View 
Historic Detail at St. John Basilica Hotel Check-out / DepartureDepart from the hotel area.
Check out from the hotel and depart for the guided visits around the Ephesus region.
House of Virgin MaryVisit the House of Virgin Mary.
Visit the peaceful pilgrimage site on Mount Koressos, traditionally associated with the final years of the Virgin Mary.
Entrance FeesHouse of Virgin Mary , €13.5 ExcludedHouse of Virgin Mary begins the private guided sightseeing day after the Ankara Airport flight connection and overnight stay near Kusadasi or Selcuk. Its hillside setting above Ephesus gives the route a calm spiritual tone before the day continues through local Christian stories and archaeology.
The site is small enough to experience without rushing, yet it carries strong meaning through tradition and atmosphere. The chapel, votive wall and quiet grounds are the key elements to notice during the visit.
Questions
Why is House of Virgin Mary the first private sightseeing stop?
House of Virgin Mary gives the private second day a calm spiritual opening after the overnight stay. It prepares the route for the Christian heritage and archaeological sites around Ephesus.What makes House of Virgin Mary meaningful on a private route?
The meaning comes from the tradition, the chapel, the votive wall and the quiet hillside setting. A private guide can give context without turning the visit into a rushed monument stop.
Cave of the Seven SleepersExplore the Seven Sleepers tradition.
Continue to the Cave of the Seven Sleepers, connected with one of the region's best-known early Christian legends.
Cave of the Seven Sleepers adds a reflective story stop to the private second-day route. Connected with the legend of young believers who slept through persecution and later awakened, the cave links the Ephesus region with themes of faith, endurance and memory.
The value of this stop comes from context rather than size. A guide explanation helps make the site meaningful before the route moves into the larger archaeological setting of Ephesus Ancient City.
Questions
Why visit Cave of the Seven Sleepers before Ephesus?
The cave visit adds an early Christian story before the larger archaeological experience. It connects the local landscape with a remembered tradition of faith, protection and awakening.How should I understand Cave of the Seven Sleepers?
Understand it as a meaningful story stop rather than a large-scale ruin. The guide explanation helps connect the cave area with the religious memory of the Ephesus region.
Ephesus Ancient CityWalk through Ephesus.
Explore the marble streets, public buildings and monumental remains of Ephesus with your licensed guide.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 ExcludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the central historical experience of this private package. Its marble streets, theatre, Library of Celsus facade, baths, fountains and civic spaces reveal the structure of a powerful ancient city in the eastern Mediterranean world.
With a private guide, the visit can slow down around details that are easy to miss: inscriptions, street surfaces, column bases, water systems and the relationship between public buildings. Those details help turn the ruins into a readable ancient city.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City central to this private package?
Ephesus is central because it is the largest and most complete historical landscape on the route. Its streets, theatre, Library of Celsus facade and civic buildings show the structure of a major ancient city.What can a private guide add inside Ephesus?
A private guide can adjust the pace and explain details such as inscriptions, street planning, water systems, building functions and how public spaces connected across the city.
Lunch Stop (Selcuk) LLunch break near Selcuk.
Pause for lunch in the Selcuk area before continuing the Biblical Ephesus route.
MealsLunch meal ExcludedLunch Stop in Selcuk creates a comfortable break in the private route close to the main sites. The Selcuk area belongs to the Aegean food landscape, so meals may reflect olive oil, vegetables, herbs, salads, grilled options and simple regional cooking.
The meal location and menu are not fixed as a destination program and can vary by operation. Its role is to support the pace of the day before the route continues to St. John Basilica.
Questions
What is the purpose of the Selcuk lunch stop?
The lunch stop gives the private sightseeing day a comfortable break near the main sites. It supports the route between Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica.Is the Selcuk lunch stop a fixed restaurant experience?
No. The restaurant and menu can vary according to operation and season. The stop is best understood as a regional meal break within the route.St. John BasilicaVisit St. John Basilica.
Visit the Basilica of St. John, one of Selcuk's key Christian heritage sites overlooking the ancient landscape.
Entrance FeesSt. John Basilica , €6 ExcludedSt. John Basilica completes the private heritage route on Ayasuluk Hill. After House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers and Ephesus Ancient City, this stop brings the day into the later Christian importance of Selcuk and the tradition connected with Saint John.
The basilica remains, baptistery area, columns and hilltop views help explain why this area remained meaningful after ancient Ephesus. It is a thoughtful final visit before the return transfer to Izmir Airport and flight back to Ankara.
Questions
Why does the private route finish with St. John Basilica?
St. John Basilica gives the route a strong Christian heritage ending on Ayasuluk Hill. It connects the day back to Saint John tradition and the later importance of Selcuk.What details are important at St. John Basilica?
The basilica plan, baptistery area, columns, stone remains and views toward the Ephesus plain are the key details. They help explain both the sacred memory and the archaeological setting.
Izmir Airport (ADB)Transfer to Izmir Airport.
Flight segment from Izmir Airport to Ankara Esenboga Airport.
TicketsFlight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Ankara Airport (ESB)) ExcludedAnkara Airport Drop-off Different tour end?Final airport drop-off.
The airport-meeting package ends at Ankara Esenboga Airport after the return flight.
Different tour end?Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast Excluded
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What's Included
- Private licensed professional tour guide.
- Private deluxe air-conditioned VIP vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Parking fees.
- Pick-up from your hotel or meeting point.
- Drop-off at your hotel or meeting point.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Day 1: Overnight accommodation (Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)).
- Day 1: Hotel Dinner meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Breakfast meal, Lunch meal.
- Drinks.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses.
- House of Virgin Mary, €13.5.
- Ephesus Ancient City, €40.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus, €15.Optional
- St. John Basilica, €6.
- Day 1: Flight ticket (Ankara Airport (ESB) to Izmir Airport (ADB)).
- Day 2: Flight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Ankara Airport (ESB)).
- Gratuities to guides and drivers.
- Travel insurance.
Informations
- Please wear comfortable walking shoes and casual clothing.
- Please dress according to the season and weather conditions.
- Hat, sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended in sunny weather.
- Bring water, especially on hot days.
- Cameras are welcome, but tripods may not be permitted in some museums and archaeological sites.
- Guests should watch their step at all times to avoid injuries.
- Please check the weather forecast before your tour.
- Respectful clothing is recommended for visits to mosques and churches.
- Keep flight documents accessible and pack a small overnight bag for the Kusadasi or Selcuk stay.
- This tour involves walking on uneven and cobblestone surfaces.
- The exact pick-up time will be confirmed after booking.
- The tour route may be adjusted due to weather, traffic, or site conditions.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult.
- Please be ready at your confirmed pick-up or meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled time.
- Main route: House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica.
- Airport-meeting products start and finish at Ankara Airport; Ankara city hotel transfers are outside this product.
- Terrace Houses are optional and are not counted as a separate route stop.
Your Peace of Mind Options
Cancellation Policy
A transparent overview of applicable fees.
Tour Reminder!
You can create a reminder for yourself for this tour. We will send you a reminder e-mail/sms about this tour on the date you specify.
FAQs
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What does this private 2-day Ephesus package from Ankara Airport include?
This private package starts directly at Ankara Airport and uses the flight connection to Izmir before a privately guided Ephesus-region route. The sightseeing day covers House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica.
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Is this private Ankara Airport package operated by flight?
Yes. The itinerary is designed around Ankara Airport and Izmir Airport flight movement, with the local Ephesus-region route arranged around the overnight package structure.
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How does the 1-night 2-day private itinerary work?
Day 1 begins at Ankara Airport, continues by flight to Izmir and positions you near Kusadasi or Selcuk. Day 2 follows the privately guided Ephesus-region route and returns to Ankara Airport.
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Is this tour private or group?
This is the private version of the Ankara Airport flight package. Your party has private guiding and a more flexible local pace, while the fixed flight and airport chain must still be protected.
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Which places are visited on this private Ephesus package?
The main sightseeing route visits House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica, with a lunch stop in the Selcuk area.
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Does this private tour include Ankara city pickup?
No. This airport-start product begins and ends at Ankara Airport. Ankara city pickup or drop-off should only be added if it is quoted as a separate transfer.
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Are domestic flight tickets included in the base private package?
No. Domestic flight tickets are not included in the base private package unless they are separately quoted or selected as part of an all-inclusive package arrangement.
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Is accommodation included in the base private package?
No. Accommodation is not assumed in the base private setup unless it is selected, quoted or confirmed as part of your package arrangement.
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Are meals included in the base private Ephesus package?
No. A lunch stop appears in the route plan, but meals are not included in the base private tour unless they are separately quoted or selected as part of an all-inclusive package option.
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Can I book this private Ankara Airport package online by credit card?
Yes. You can book this private 2-day Ephesus package from Ankara Airport online and pay by credit card through the booking system.
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What is the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee, and is it included?
No. In the base private Ankara Airport Ephesus package, the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee is paid separately unless you select an all-inclusive package during booking. House of Virgin Mary entry fee is €13.5.
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What is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee, and is it included?
No. In the base private Ankara Airport Ephesus package, the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is paid separately unless you select an all-inclusive package during booking. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40.
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What is the St. John Basilica entrance fee, and is it included?
No. In the base private Ankara Airport Ephesus package, the St. John Basilica entrance fee is paid separately unless you select an all-inclusive package during booking. St. John Basilica entry fee is €6.
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Is the Terrace Houses entrance fee included in this private package?
No. Terrace Houses is optional and is not included in the base private package. Add it only if you want extra time for the Roman residential section inside Ephesus. Terrace Houses of Ephesus entry fee is €15.
General FAQs
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Is Ephesus a good shore excursion from Kusadasi port?
Yes. Ephesus is one of the most popular and efficient day trips from Kusadasi.
- The drive is usually short compared to many other ports.
- We plan the route around your ship timing and keep a safe return buffer.
- Early starts help avoid heat and heavy crowds in peak season.
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How do cruise shore excursions work (meeting point and return time)?
Shore excursions are built around your ships docking schedule.
- We confirm a clear meeting point close to the port exit.
- We recommend a comfortable buffer before all-aboard time.
- If your ship uses tender boats, allow extra time and tell us your tender details.
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Where is Ephesus located and what is it close to?
Ephesus is an ancient city near Selcuk on Turkeys Aegean coast.
- The closest main cruise port town is Kusadasi.
- Izmir is the nearest major city and transport hub.
- Many day tours combine Ephesus with nearby stops based on your available time.
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Can I visit Ephesus from Izmir port in one day?
Yes, but it is a longer drive than from Kusadasi.
- Timing must be planned carefully to avoid rushing.
- If your port stay is short, we may recommend an Izmir-focused program instead.
- Share your ship schedule and we will suggest the most realistic plan.
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What are the must-see highlights inside Ephesus?
Ephesus is a large open-air archaeological site with world-famous monuments.
- Library of Celsus and Curetes Street.
- Great Theatre and main marble streets.
- Key public areas such as agoras, baths, and temples depending on route and time.
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Should I add the Terrace Houses in Ephesus?
The Terrace Houses offer a closer look at Roman-era homes, mosaics, and frescoes.
- This visit usually requires extra time and is often a separate ticket.
- If you love details, art, and interiors, it is a great upgrade.
- For cruise days with limited time, we can advise if it fits comfortably.
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How much walking is there at Ephesus?
Ephesus involves a lot of walking on stone surfaces and open paths.
- Paths can be uneven and can feel slippery when wet.
- There are gentle slopes and limited shade in some areas.
- If you have mobility concerns, tell us and we can suggest the best route or alternatives.
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What should I wear for an Ephesus tour?
Comfort and sun protection make a big difference.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen in warm months.
- Carry water, especially in summer and on cruise days.
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When is the best time to visit Ephesus?
Ephesus can be visited year-round, but the experience changes by season.
- Spring and autumn are comfortable for long outdoor visits.
- Summer is hotter and busier, so early starts are recommended.
- Winter has fewer crowds but cooler weather and occasional rain.
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Is Ephesus crowded and how do we avoid peak crowds?
Ephesus is very popular, especially in summer and on cruise days.
- Starting early is the best way to reduce crowds and heat.
- We can adjust stop order based on ship traffic and site flow.
- Weekends and holidays can be busier.
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Do I need to buy Ephesus tickets in advance?
In peak season, planning helps avoid delays, but rules can change.
- Some areas may have separate tickets.
- Starting early is often more important than pre-buying.
- On guided tours, we plan entry timing to keep the day smooth.
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Should I add the House of Virgin Mary to my tour?
It is a meaningful stop for many visitors and can be added based on timing.
- It is a short drive from Ephesus.
- It can be busier at certain times, so we plan the order carefully.
- If your cruise time is limited, we will suggest a realistic priority list.
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Is Sirince village worth visiting from Ephesus?
Sirince is a small hillside village near Selcuk and is often added for variety.
- It is popular for its relaxed atmosphere, small cafes, and local products.
- It works well if you want something beyond ruins.
- We add it only when it fits safely with your return schedule.
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Can I combine Ephesus with Pamukkale in one day?
It is usually too long for a comfortable day, especially for cruise schedules.
- Pamukkale is a longer drive and needs more time on site.
- For a better experience, consider an overnight plan.
- If you share your exact timing, we can advise what is realistic.
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Can I combine Ephesus with Pergamon on the same day?
It is usually not recommended for a single day from Kusadasi.
- Pergamon is closer to Izmir than to Kusadasi.
- Doing both can feel rushed and increases return-time risk.
- If you have extra days, plan them on separate days for a better experience.
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What if my ship docks late or departs earlier than planned?
Ship schedules can change, and we plan with buffer time.
- If you receive an updated schedule, message us immediately.
- We can shorten or adjust the route while keeping key highlights.
- Our priority is always a safe, on-time return to port.
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Private tour or group tour: what is better for Ephesus?
For cruise travelers, private tours are often the most comfortable option.
- Private tours allow flexible pace, timing, and photo stops.
- Group tours can be good value, but timing is less flexible.
- We can recommend the best option based on your ship schedule and preferences.
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Is Ephesus suitable for seniors or limited mobility?
It depends on comfort level, as the site is large and mostly outdoors.
- There are uneven stones and some slopes.
- We can select a route that reduces walking where possible.
- Please tell us about mobility needs in advance so we can plan correctly.
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Do I need a visa to visit Turkey?
Visa requirements depend on your passport and may change.
- Please check the latest official entry rules for your nationality before travel.
- Many visitors use an e-Visa when eligible for short tourist stays.
- If you share your passport country, we can guide you to the correct official source to verify.
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What currency is used in Turkey?
Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TRY).
- ATMs are common in Kusadasi, Selcuk, and Izmir.
- Cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful for small purchases and tips.
- Keep small bills for convenience.
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Are credit cards accepted in Kusadasi and around Ephesus?
Cards are accepted in many restaurants, shops, and hotels.
- Small vendors and some taxis may prefer cash.
- For markets and quick purchases, cash is helpful.
- Keep a backup payment option, especially on busy port days.
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Is tap water safe to drink in Turkey?
Many travelers prefer bottled water.
- Bottled water is easy to find and inexpensive.
- If you have a sensitive stomach, avoid ice in unknown places.
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Is tipping common in Turkey?
Tipping is common and appreciated for good service.
- Restaurants: rounding up or leaving a small amount is typical.
- Guides and drivers: optional and based on service quality.
- Carry small notes for convenience.
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What plug type and voltage are used in Turkey?
Turkey typically uses Type C and Type F plugs (220V, 50Hz).
- Bring an adapter if your plug type is different.
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How can I get a SIM or eSIM in Turkey?
SIM and eSIM options are available from major operators.
- Official stores usually require passport registration.
- If you only need data, compare short-term packages.
- Download offline maps if you plan to explore independently.
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Do Ephesus and museums have closure days or seasonal hours?
Opening hours can change by season and some venues may have weekly closure days.
- Public holidays can also affect schedules.
- Some venues have different winter and summer hours.
- We plan visits based on current opening information.
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Can I take photos inside Ephesus and museums?
Photography rules vary by venue.
- Outdoor ruins usually allow photos.
- Some museums restrict flash or photography in certain areas.
- Always follow posted rules and staff instructions.
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What is ship time vs local time and why does it matter?
Some cruise ships keep ship time different from local Turkey time.
- Always confirm whether your port schedule is in ship time or local time.
- Tell us what your cruise line uses so we plan pickups correctly.
- This helps avoid confusion on meeting points and return timing.
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Is Turkey safe for cruise travelers and day tour guests?
Tourist areas like Kusadasi and major sites are used to international visitors.
- Use normal precautions in crowded places near the port and markets.
- Stick to licensed transport and agreed meeting points.
- Keep valuables secure and avoid carrying unnecessary cash.
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What can I do in Kusadasi if I skip Ephesus?
If you prefer a lighter day, there are good alternatives.
- Explore Kusadasi town and waterfront.
- Consider local food stops and shopping areas.
- We can suggest a shorter cultural route depending on your time in port.
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Should I carry my passport during port days?
We recommend keeping your passport safely on the ship or at your accommodation and carrying a copy if needed.
- A phone photo plus a printed copy is usually enough for day trips.
- For buying a SIM, you may need the original passport at the store.
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What is the emergency number in Turkey?
Dial 112 for emergencies (medical, police, fire, and urgent situations).
- If you are on a guided day, inform your guide so we can help quickly.
Good to Know
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Good to know: Meet directly at Ankara Airport
This private product begins and ends at Ankara Airport. Ankara city pickup or hotel drop-off must be quoted separately if needed.
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Good to know: Base private inclusions are narrower
Flight tickets, accommodation, meals and entrance fees are not assumed in the base private setup. Confirm the selected package details before payment.
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Good to know: Flight and hotel timing must align
The flight times, hotel area and next-day private guiding plan need to be confirmed together so the route runs smoothly.
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Good to know: The sightseeing day includes walking
Ephesus and Ayasuluk Hill include marble streets, steps, slopes and sunny open areas. Comfortable shoes, water and sun protection are strongly recommended.
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Good to know: Terrace Houses requires a separate decision
Terrace Houses is optional on this route. Add it only if timing and the separate entrance-fee arrangement are confirmed for your booking.
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